HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-26-2017 CHC Correspondence - Item 1 (Holyfield)Meeting: 74, (1-
From:
rFrom: Jennifer Holyfield [
Sent: Sunday, June 25, 2017 3:59 PM Item;
To: Oetzell, Walter <woetzelI@slocity.org>
Subject: 1160 Leff St.
RECEIVED
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
JUN 2 6 2017
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Dear Mr Oetzell, My husband I and own, and reside in the house at 1151 Leff st, across the
street and 2 doors down from 1160 Leff.
My husband and I vehemently oppose the removal of 1160 Leff st from the Contributing
Properties List of Historic Resources.
We have read the Cultural Heritage Committee Agenda Report on this matter, and we have
spoken with the owner of the property.
Tearing down that building would significantly damage the central part of our block that consists
of small family homes, most of which are owner occupied, and all of which are being cared for
and preserved by the owners. Yes, there are apartment buildings on either side of this central
core of the block, but the center still looks and feels like the rest of our historic
neighborhood. That would no longer be the case if a large 3 unit complex was built at 1160
Leff. Especially because 1160 Leff is before the street curves and becomes Toro. I have
attached a photo looking down Leff towards the Toro curve. As you can see, you do not see
apartment buildings. 1160 Leff is the house with the grey car in front on the left. A large 3 unit
complex will change the street dramatically for the worse.
It is inconsistent and somewhat insulting for the City to recommend demolition of a perfectly
functional and virtually intact home built in 1910 because of a few vinyl windows and a
composite roof. How many of us in this neighborhood have had to replace,repair and restore
alterations like that done to our homes over the years in order to conform to the historic
character of the neighborhood? And at extra expense and effort? Many of us.
For example, the house at 1169 Leff directly across the street were renovated only a few years
ago, and was in much worse condition than 1160 Leff. The owner/investor did a beautiful
job,and preserved the character and scale of the original buildings. I know it was not
inexpensive or easy for him.
We asked the developer of 1160 Leff why he could not leave the front house, and put units in
the back and he came right out and told us he wouldn't make enough money if he did
that. "Hardship" is certainly not applicable in this case. The house is a profitable rental unit as
it is so any repairs it needs are not ruinously expensive. We have read the Historic Preservation
Program Historic Guidelines, and I draw your attention to section 1.3 Why Preserve San Luis
Obispo History?
" San Luis Obispo is blessed with original historic buildings and distinctive historic districts that
many communities envy. Historic resources lend a sense of permanence and continuity;
however, in some respects they are also fragile and vulnerable. The values and character they
impart can easily be lost through neglect, demolition and inappropriate remodeling. The City of
San Luis Obispo has been fortunate to have owners who care about the history of their
community and have undertaken the costly and time-consuming task of restoring, maintaining
and enhancing their historic homes and commercial buildings. Their efforts have enhanced the
distinctive character of the community. Historic features have community benefits beyond their
aesthetic qualities and educational value. San Luis Obispo's historic sites, buildings and other
aspects of our "living history" are irreplaceable resources. They are important to the
community's economic vitality, quality of life, and unique sense of place."
We do not see anything that says "Except where there is extra money to be made, then all other
considerations are null and void" It is a Double Standard: One for Investors and one for
Homeowners.
There is a Double Standard. Our house was built in 1974. Not historic, not contributing, and so
should not have been difficult for us to obtain a permit to replace our 40 year old rotten siding,
roof and windows. On the contrary, we had to go through a lengthy and expensive process,
which included hiring an architect to redesign the facade of our house to "fit in better with the
neighborhood". I know the developer of 1160 Leff says he will have the new complex designed
to "fit in with the character of the neighborhood" Do you know what DOES fit in with the
character of the neighborhood? The house at 1160 Leff that was built in 1910 and is there right
now!
We will attend the meeting on June 26th, but wanted to let you know our view in writing.
Thank You, Jason and Jen Holyfield